It is eight! Ruthless Sundowns make statement in Caf CL

Published on by Willis Sob

Mamelodi Sundowns claimed a comfortable 4-0 win over Mbabane Swallows in the second leg of the Caf Champions League's second preliminary round to advance.

Masandawana recorded a massive 4-0 win away in the initial meeting which made the second one look like a mere formality.

It explains why Denis Onyango replaced Ronwen Williams in goal, with the likes of Thembinkosi Lorch and Kobamelo Kodisang starting. Iqraam Rayners and Lucas Ribeiro were among the players who were left out of the matchday squad.

Despite fielding a weakened team, the Premier Soccer League champions started the game well and limited the opponents from getting a goal in the first half.

Kobamelo Kodisang opens account

Swallows custodian Mathabela Sandanezwe pulled some top saves in the first half to deny Peter Shalulile twice. The first attempt was in the 13th minute with the second one coming three minutes later.

The Namibia international has been struggling to get goals despite his determination and hard work during matches. Lorch and Kodisang were the other players who did well in the final third, only to be let down by their finish.

In the 42nd minute, Sundowns got their goal; Divine Lunga did well on the left before crossing the ball, and Kodisang tapped it into an empty net to give his team a first-half lead. 

Sundowns run riot after the break

It got worse for Swallows in the 60th minute when the hosts doubled the advantage. Lorch played in a great setpiece and youngster Malibongwe Khoza headed the ball home.

Four minutes later, it became three goals for the Brazilians as Lorch tapped in Kodisang's cross from the right.

A mistyale by the goalkeeper in the 67th minute ended up with Sphelele Mkhulise unleashing a rocket that almost burst the net to make it 4-0 and in the process match first leg's scoreline.

Downs are now into the group stage of the annual competition hoping to go all the way this season.

It is eight! Ruthless Sundowns make statement in Caf CL

Willis Sob

Willis Sob is an experienced journalist who has been in the game since 2009, covering major assignments around the continent.
His hunger for African football is unmatched, always getting the best angles and facts to feed the fans and quench their thirst.